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Chia: A Super Seed

Chia seeds, better known as the main ingredient of a Chia Pet, are surprisingly nutritious.

by
Emily Favilla

courtesy of Shutterstock

HISTORY Native to Mexico; belongs to the mint family; chia is the Mayan word for strength: Aztec warriors ate these seeds for energy and endurance before battles and long treks.APPEARANCE Like sesame seeds or flaxseeds in size and shape; come in “black” and “white” varieties.TASTE Mildly nutty.BENEFITS Full of antioxidants, calcium, potassium, magnesium, iron, and zinc; one tablespoon has 3 grams of omega-3s, 5 g of fiber, 3.5 g of protein, and just 78 calories.USES Snack on seeds or sprinkle over salads; soak seeds in water to soften them and mix into smoothies or soup (but avoid boiling liquids—the seed’s fatty acids break down at high heat, says dietitian Jennifer Hunter [jennifernutritionist.com]).BUY in bulk at health food stores or at greensplus.com/chia. Refrigerate the seeds to preserve the fatty acids, says Hunter. Or try CocoChia Ultimate Snack Fuel Bar ($30 for 12 bars; livingfuel.com) or Weil by Nature’s Path Chia Razz Bar ($2.29 each; naturespath.com)

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